NEWS: Heritage Open Days @ Various Locations

A chance to take a closer look at the region’s heritage
Image: Andrew Hepinstall

By Eugenie Johnson
on Tuesday, September 8th, 2015

It’s mind-boggling how quickly history repeats itself. It’s time again for Heritage Open Days (running from Thursday 10th until Sunday 13th September) and offering an opportunity to investigate hotspots in the region free of charge – some of them not normally open to the public.

One of the most exciting elements is the opportunity to explore the Victorian police cells at Gateshead Old Town Hall. The venue’s resident artists – members of the East Street Art Studio – will be installing works inside the cells, ranging from sculptural pieces to projections, responding to the building or the area’s past (there’s a limited capacity of six per tour so act fast if you want to get behind bars!).

Other highlights include the chance to explore the wonderful world of literature at the revamped Seven Stories: National Centre for Children’s Books; at North Shields, you can delve into maritime history at The Old Low Light Heritage Centre – the North East’s newest heritage attraction; bring your selfie sticks (if you are so inclined) for the best views of Newcastle, from either St Nicholas Cathedral or Newcastle Castle (i.e. the Keep and its recently reopened medieval gatehouse the Black Gate), where costumed characters will be in attendance; check out a palace fit for kings at Durham’s Auckland Castle; take a look at the Modern Buildings of Sunderland: the good, the bad and the ugly; celebrate the life of local 18th Century writer Laurence Sterne at All Saints Church in Saltburn; or visit the wonderful Georgian Ormesby Hall in Middlesbrough.